Tips To Plan & Enjoy Your Weekends in Barkingside

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Barkingside is a place of unrivalled contrasts set on the borders of London. The area is both town and country, charming and mysterious, a place of peace and tranquillity with a strong history. According to Ilford letting agents, there are many things to do here, whether you want to visit the local shops or venture further afield into the city or the surrounding countryside. Barkingside is an area of Ilford bounded by Hornchurch Road to the north, Western Avenue to the south, much of Woodford New Road to the west and the River Roding being the eastern boundary. Although it is in the catchment area of Havering College, Barkingside has its own library, multi-cultural centre and several superb shopping facilities including a Waitrose store. Here is a list of places you can visit over the weekend that is within driving distance from Barkingside.

1. Valentines Mansion

At Valentines Mansion you will find a miniature museum, displaying original miniatures from the 18th and 19th centuries, including tiny books with real pages, a doll’s house with working lights and a scale model of an early Victorian kitchen. Outside the mansion, there is a carefully restored walled garden providing colour all year round. The gardens are home to an orchard with over 20 different varieties of fruit trees, a sensory garden and an interactive herb garden where children can discover how herbs were used in cooking, medicine, cosmetics and magic. The Mansion also hosts regular exhibitions as well as workshops for adults and children throughout the year. A special programme of activities for families run during school holidays. If you are looking to find a perfect property for you in Barkingside then contact estate agents in Barkingside for a stress-free process.

2. Aldborough Hall Equestrian

BHS Approved Aldborough Hall Equestrian Centre can provide a wealth of equestrian activity for all ages. A variety of Children’s Lessons are held on Saturday and Sunday weekly to cater for all levels of ability, you just need to check which level is which time, when planning. If you already have some riding experience or are a competent rider, then you may be interested in taking part in one of the many shows or events that take place at Aldborough Hall Equestrian Centre throughout the year. These include Dressage Competitions, Cross Country Competitions, Show Jumping Competitions, Pony Club Events and much more.

3. Battersea Zoo

There are loads of exciting things to do and see – from colourful birds and furry meerkats to slithering snakes and slimy frogs. Book your tickets now and during your visit, you can feed the goats and guinea pigs in the petting area, take part in one of our animal talks or book an unforgettable experience at our animal encounters where you can stroke a snake, hold a giant millipede or say hello to a bearded dragon! The zoo also offers a unique opportunity for kids to get up close with nature, with plenty of adventure play spaces and activities including a maze, climbing frame and sensory garden. If you love animals then this is the place for you! 

4. Alexandra Palace

Alexandra Palace is a listed historic building and one of the most important Victorian buildings in London. It was built in 1873 as a public centre of recreation, education and entertainment and is now a multi-purpose venue with a wide range of activities, concerts and events. Set in beautiful parkland with views across London, Ally Pally has fun things for kids and the whole family. The BBC Elstree Centre is also on-site, so you never know who you will see! Alexandra Palace is home to BBC Studioworks who provide television studios and post-production facilities for the BBC, independent production companies and many others.

5. Ambassador theatre

The atmosphere at this theatre is very professional and friendly. The staff at the theatre is always ready to help and make sure that you have an enjoyable time. At this theatre, you will find that you will not have to worry about any disturbances or other problems while watching the show. The theatre offers two main seating areas. One seating area is on the right side of the stage, while another seating area is on the left side of the stage. These two areas offer great views of both sides of the stage as well as views of surrounding streets and buildings. Both sides offer easy access to restrooms and other amenities such as bars and food options.

Barkingside is filled with more fun places to make your weekend worthwhile with your family. You could visit the Waterworks Nature Reserve, which is located within Hainault Forest Country Park. The reserve has an abundance of wildlife and there are many walks you can do through it. There are plenty of birds to see, including kingfishers and herons, as well as dragonflies and butterflies throughout the summer. If you go in early spring you will be able to spot some beautiful bluebells! The park also features two lakes and during winter they freeze over so people can enjoy ice skating on them. 

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